noun HSK 2
knife · blade · sword
Meaning
刀 refers to any blade or cutting tool, from kitchen knives to swords. It's one of the most ancient tools in Chinese culture and appears in countless compound words. The character itself is a pictograph showing the curved shape of a blade.
Usage
刀 is used both as a standalone noun and as a component in many compound words related to cutting tools or blade-based weapons. In modern daily life, it most commonly refers to kitchen knives. When counting knives, the measure word 把 is used.
Examples
- 01这把刀很锋利，小心别切到手。, .This knife is very sharp, be careful not to cut your hand.
- 02妈妈用菜刀切菜。.Mom uses a kitchen knife to cut vegetables.
Measure words
- 把一把刀
Common collocations
- 一刀切to cut with one stroke; one-size-fits-all approach
- 两面三刀double-dealing, two-faced
- 大刀阔斧bold and decisive measures
- 开刀to perform surgery; to start disciplinary action
Origin
刀 is a pictograph (象形字) depicting the curved blade and handle of a knife or sword. Its shape has remained relatively consistent throughout Chinese writing history, making it one of the more recognizable ancient characters.